Jessica’s now a big role model after overseas stint

The 21-year-old has just returned home from Los Angeles, but might be re-packing her suitcase sooner rather than later with a move to Sydney on the cards.

Jessica said she had had many opportunities since being scouted earlier this year by New York's Catherine Schuller, an leader in the full-figured modelling industry.

"I'm signed to Dallys Models here in Australia and I'm heading to Sydney next month to meet with another agency, so hopefully that will lead to some exciting opportunities down that way," she said.

"Unfortunately though it has meant that I've had to defer my physiotherapy studies at CQUniversity.

"I figured that I have my whole life to study but opportunities like these probably won't come along again.

"One day, after all this modelling stuff is over, I can see myself becoming a physiotherapist."

The former Rockhampton Grammar School student has worked with some of America's most high-profile photographers and stylists since winning the Overall Female Fashion Plus Size Model award in Orlando earlier this year.

Jessica said she was looking forward to promoting the plus-size industry and being a role model to younger girls.

"I think every girl, no matter what size, has struggled with body image at some point in their life because it's a sad part of growing up," she said.

"But my height and size have made me who I am today and maybe one day everyone will change their mindset and see that a girl who is a size six and a girl who is a 16 can both be as beautiful as one another.

"Being a plus-size model is a different and fresh concept that I hope becomes more widely accepted as the norm.

"You have to accept it and live with it, so why not make the most of what you've got."

Jessica was invited back to America in December but declined the offer so she could spend more time with her family and friends over the Christmas break.

Jess's top tips:

Show your positives and hide your negatives. For example: If you've got a great waist or legs, display them. If you aren't happy with the tops of your arms wear a longer sleeve.

Don't try and cover everything up. Show your neckline or a little bit of leg.

Don't be afraid of colour.

Accessorise! It can be a great way to draw attention away from your 'problem' areas.